Clermont's Pig on the Pond features barbecue, great fun

FREE TIME

CLERMONT -- Now in its tenth year, Pig on the Pond is known as a serious barbecue contest, with carnival rides, crafters and plenty of food.

But its real purpose is raising money for education.

The event, starting at 5 p.m. today at the Waterfront Park in Clermont, serves as an umbrella for more than 25 nonprofit organizations and another 60 sponsoring groups that help children pay for college and kick in funds for educational programs in the schools.

"It is a very special event because the community is so involved in it," said Jady Hill of the Florida Boys barbecue team. "I love to see that."

Hill and his team from Sebring have competed since the first Pig on the Pond, taking the top honors as Grand Champions in 2001.

In his travels as a barbecue contestant, Hill said, he has seen the Clermont event become one of the best attended in the Southeast. Last year, about 25,000 people came out for food and fun. Increasing attendance translates into more money for education.

"All the money we raise -- it was about $80,000 last year -- directly benefits the children of South Lake County," said organizer Lisa Jensen.

Any group wanting to participate must come up with a project that adds to the mix of events and has children's education at heart. Then they must pitch it to event organizers Jensen and Cheryl Fishel.

"The South Lake High School student government association proposed a potato bar," Jensen said. "They will make French fries and stuffed potatoes. The Parent-Teacher Organization of Groveland Elementary School will sponsor a putting challenge."

Today's events include the Great Chili Challenge, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and the karaoke finals, 8 to 10 p.m.

Saturday's events begin at 10 a. m. and include Miss South Lake Star Search Pageant, frozen-custard- and chicken-nugget-eating contests and the awards ceremony for winners of the barbecue and dessert contests.

Entertainment is nonstop both days. The performances culminate Saturday with appearances by singer and hometown favorite Whitney Hogan at 6 p.m. and by singer and guitarist Patrick Gibson, known as the Florida Cracker Country Boy, at 8 p.m.

Because on-site parking is reserved for disabled people, shuttle service will run 4 to 11 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday from five locations, including the Citrus Tower Professional Center, a block south of the Citrus Tower, the First Methodist Church and the Clermont Middle School.